Using Creativity Approach in Mining: Integrating OTSM-TRIZ and AHP by assessing resource maturity level for new Solutions

Abstract

Mining problems are increasingly complex, involving technical, economic, and human variables due to ongoing process, machine, and technology improvements. Effective maintenance for this new generation remains a challenge. Innovative maintenance methods and tools are crucial for identifying failures and proposing solutions that align with companies' needs, ensuring feasible real-world implementation. This article introduces a method inspired by the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (OTSM-TRIZ) and Resource Analysis to understand implementation risks. A step-by-step procedure structures the problem context through elicitation, classification, and evaluation. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) reinforces decision-making analysis. A case study demonstrates the method's application through four stages: i) forming working groups to gather information across company levels; ii) using a Network of Problems (NoP) to identify issues and potential solutions; iii) applying Resource Analysis to understand implementation challenges; and iv) employing AHP to compare NoP solutions and determine the most suitable one. This methodology fosters idea creation, addresses risks, and facilitates decision-making, leading to robust and effective mining project proposals